Let’s be honest, we all know our best hunting pals are the friend that carries the most weight during hunting trips—bird dogs. Where would we be without them? Likely still putting on miles and miles on foot without a single bird in hand.
Being able to bring your trusted hunting partner with you to an area full of grouse is what dreams are made of for upland hunters. Plus, your dog will be super happy out there too, doing what they love. Give yourself and your working dog the “vacation” of a lifetime flushing abundant grouse in thick and open cover. Perhaps you can justify a few duck retrieves also, depending on the lodge you choose.
Each lodge, however dog-friendly, will appreciate a heads-up that you’re bringing Fido along. Be sure to let them know when you’re booking that a dog (or two) will be joining your hunting party. There may be some guidelines they’d like you to follow such as on leash at all times at camp, no dogs left in cabins unattended, etc.
When you book, be clear that you will be hunting with your dog, there may be some important additional information the lodge can give you to make your trip even better.
Some lodges have pet fees, and it is understandable as some of our furry friends seemingly leave more of them behind than they take with them. People with severe pet allergies will likely book at a pet-free facility, but the lodges are only doing their best to accommodate guests. The pet fees help lodges spend extra time cleaning the dander and dog hair up for the next guest.
Blaze orange for yourself and your pup- even out of rifle season this is a good idea.
Goggles go a long way for pups working in thick grouse cover, especially for gnarly retrieves.
A small first aid kit for yourself and your dog as well in case you run into any minor injuries so you can treat them. Odds are your dog will be willing to get back to work before you will anyhow.
Leash and collar, no matter how well-behaved your working dog may be, most lodges require dogs to be leashed. It’s for their safety too.
Drinking water receptacle for your pet on the trail. Collapsable bowls and a canteen of water are easiest.
Dog food. If travelling from the U.S. check ahead of time border crossing rules for dog food.
Any medication your dog may take currently
Saddlebags if your dog carries any of your gear
Game bag for your bounty
Crossing the border of Canada with a dog can add some additional planning to your trip, be sure to check out all of the criteria necessary to bring your pup with you.
Happy Day Lodge, Prairie Bee Camps and Goldie Outpost: Chapleau, Ontario
Old Mill Motel: Blind River, Ontario
